Liriope muscari

Position: partial to full shade, but will tolerate a sunnier spot if the soil is reliably moist.

Soil: well-drained, neutral to acid soil

Rate of growth: average

Flowering period: August to November

Hardiness: fully hardy

An extremely useful plant, which will tolerate a range of conditions including dry shade and drought. Dark green, blade-like leaves provide year-round interest and in autumn, just as other flowers are beginning to fade, vibrant, long-lasting wands of deep violet flowers rise above the foliage. Lily-turf is perfect for edging small, shady spaces - the broad grass-like foliage contrasts beautifully with large leaved plants, or for planting in groups beneath deciduous shrubs.

Garden care: To encourage new growth, cut off tired-looking leaves down to the ground in spring. This is also the time to lift and divide large clumps.